Extra systole, also known as premature ventricular contraction (PVC) or ectopic beat, occurs when the heart has an extra contraction followed by a compensatory pause. This creates a pulse pattern where a premature beat is felt, then a longer than normal interval before the next regular beat. Patients may describe this as their heart 'skipping a beat' or feeling a 'fluttering' sensation. While occasional extra systoles can be normal, frequent ones may indicate underlying heart conditions, electrolyte imbalances, or stimulant use. Nurses should assess the frequency, pattern, and any associated symptoms like dizziness or chest pain when detecting extra systoles during pulse assessment.

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Zambia

• Joseph Soko – 101 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies